Requirement for use: vertical drop >= 6 feet
The safety net:
(1) must be installed as close as practical to the surface with workers
(2) must be <= 30 feet below the working surface
(3) must have an unobstructed path if used on a bridge
Specifications:
(1) horizontal distance that the outer edge of netting must extend away from the edge of the working surface
(2) performance of drop tests
(3) dimensions of the netting
(4) inspection and maintenance of the netting
(5) border rope
(6) connections between net panels
(7) documentation
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Vertical Distance from Working Level to Horizontal Plane of the Netting
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Minimal Horizontal Distance from Edge of Working Surface to Outer Edge of the Netting
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< 5 feet
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8 feet
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5 to 10 feet
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10 feet
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> 10 feet
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13 feet
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Drop-testing should be performed with a 400 lb bag of sand (dropped from the highest surface used by workers or 42 inches, whichever is greater):
(1) after initial installation, prior to first use
(2) whenever relocated
(3) after major repair
(4) every 6 months if left in place
Netting under load should not come into contact with anything below it.
If drop testing cannot be performed then the net system should be inspected and certified by a competent person prior to use with a dated and signed record maintained.
Dimensions of the netting: maximum size 6 by 6 inches, with area of 36 square inches
Inspection and maintenance:
(1) Inspection is for wear, damage and deterioration.
(2) Frequency is at least once a week.
(3) An inspection should be conducted after any event that may damage the netting.
(4) Defects are to be immediately repaired or replaced.
(5) Foreign debris is to be removed as soon as possible or prior to next work shift.
Border rope for webbing should have a minimum breaking strength of 5,000 lbs.
Connections between panels must not be spaced more than 6 inches apart and must be as strong as the integral net components.
Documentation related to net safety (installation certification, inspection) should be available at the jobsite.
